It won’t be hard for RSL fans to remember the last time the Claret-and-Cobalt and New York Red Bulls last met – almost a year ago to the day – in one of the most thrilling and heartbreaking matches of 2013. The two sides met at Red Bull Arena on July 27, 2013 with the home side getting off to a perfect start, taking the lead through Australian international MF Tim Cahill in the 11th minute and then doubling its lead after former Red Bulls and RSL FW Fabian Espindola converted from the spot 12 minutes later. Despite being down 2-0 on the road, the Claret-and-Cobalt went on to stage an amazing comeback led by RSL’s all-time leading scorer, FW Alvaro Saborio. The Costa Rican international went on to put in one of his best performances scoring three unanswered goals (45’, 80’, 82’) to give RSL the improbable lead. But RSL was unable to finish out the match, conceding two goals in the 89th and 94th minutes to fall 3-4 on the road.
Unfortunately, RSL will be without Saborio on Wednesday’s rematch due to injury, but last year’s match was a showcase of RSL’s grit, determination and team-wide talent. Let’s hope the Claret-and-Cobalt can put on another show and enact some revenge at home on Wednesday night in a nationally televised match on ESPN 2.
